Vehicle manufacturers are still, despite all the challenges with supply chain and electronic chip supplies, launching new products into the market.
Perhaps there is a lesson in all of this? Keeping pushing forward will streamline the uptake in the market once market and economic conditions recover and, of course, consistent visibility is great to stay in the minds of potential buyers.
Hyundai has just introduced its restyled Creta and I must admit, it is significantly more edgy than the previous model. This will, in my mind, attract younger buyers – individuals as well as families.
It will be available in three derivatives with two different specification levels: Premium and Executive. All will be fitted with a 1.5-litre engine linked to either an intelligent variable transmission (IVT) or manual transmission.
Exterior
The most visible design feature on the Creta is the front end.
Dominated by a redesigned black grill, headlight clusters, bumper and daylight running lights, it is utterly modern and dynamic. The wheel arch design adds boldness which is further enhanced by those subtle design lines across the bonnet.
The side view sports a silver inset that runs from the A-pillar to the C pillar. This enhances the side-on looks and again, accentuates the edge style lines atop of the wheel arches.
The Creta sits on 17-inch wheels, confirming its SUV status and providing excellent ground clearance.
At the rear – well, let me think about this? It is busy and bold but I like those small naughty light clusters above the larger and main clusters but yes – the rear end is busy!
Interior
The interior is spacious, ergonomic and comfortable – slightly subdued even. Hyundai uses the term tranquil – I like it – the less detail there is to distract from the driving experience, the better.
The multifunction steering wheel provides access to the infotainment system, trip computer and cruise control.
The Executive derivative also sports a wireless charging pad for your mobile phone.
There is an 8-inch touch screen that offers access to the various functions via voice commands. ‘Yeah – talk to me baby’ suddenly gives new meaning to your driving experience!
Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity are standard in all derivatives.
Rear-view park assist sensors and cameras make parking a snip.
Driving performance
As mentioned previously, the Creta is fitted with a 1.5-litre engine generating 84kW and144Nm. Power is driven to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or an IVT gearbox. The latter, which I drove on the launch, is smooth and although the 1.5 will never win boy racer status, its performance over the launch route and town driving was excellent and confident, courtesy of McPherson struts/torsion beam set-up.
The noise inside the cabin is well controlled. This allowed my driving partner, Laurette Morgan, and I to comfortably chat about life and cars and well, more life and cars.
The Creta boasts front and side airbags for both driver and front passenger. Curtain airbags for rear passengers are offered in the Executive model.
Electronic stability control and hill start assist come standard in all derivatives.
Conclusion
This Creta is built in Indonesia and Hyundai believes this will also enhance stock levels and eliminate supply chain challenges.
The Creta offers enough, and more, of everything – power, comfort, technology and safety, and will prove a reliable and loved transport companion for families and active individuals alike.
Pricing starts at R409 900 for the 1.5 Premium MT – R429 900 for the Premium IVT and R469 900 for the Executive IVT. This includes Hyundai’s 7-year / 200 000km warranty and a 4-year / 150 000km service plan.
Photos: QuickPic
